I am honored to have been invited to partake in a special art exchange that celebrates the connections between my native Minnesota, USA and my family roots in Norway.

The ‘Motherland’ Art Exchange is a collaboration between two galleries - 9 Mile Gallery in Minnesota and Galleri Semmingsen in Oslo, Norway - with five artists from each country visiting the other country as a part of the exchange. We will all come together for an extra special gathering at Norway House in Minneapolis for a collective exhibit there as well.

2025 is an exciting year as we celebrate 200 years since the first Norwegian immigrants left Norway and arrived in the USA. This important history feels very personal for me as I reflect on my heritage and the journeys of my immigrant ancestors. This year is also very special for me as I step into unchartered waters of my own through this amazing experience.

I am painting, exploring, travelling, making new connections, creating, learning, and growing both as an artist and as a person.

For our ancestors, coming to America was a risk, a challenge, even a sacrifice. Yet it was full of hope and opportunity for them as well. I am eager to channel their strength, resilience, courage, and hope as I return to my family’s ‘Motherland.’ The hope of a brighter future ahead was a part of our immigrants’ renaissance. And this amazing exchange is a part of my own Renaissance too.